Taiwan’s government said Monday that it is closely monitoring changes in China’s military leadership following the announcement that a top Chinese general has been placed under investigation. Officials described the shifts as “abnormal” and emphasized that Taipei remains alert to any potential security implications.
The general under investigation is Zhang Youxia, vice chairman of China’s Central Military Commission and a key figure in the People’s Liberation Army. Chinese authorities said Zhang is being probed for “serious violations of discipline and law.” Another senior officer, Liu Zhenli, is also under investigation. Zhang’s role as one of the highest-ranking military leaders in China makes this move particularly notable.
Taiwan’s Defense Minister Wellington Koo said the government is carefully tracking developments and will maintain a heightened defensive posture. He emphasized that while the leadership changes are unusual, they do not necessarily indicate an immediate shift in Beijing’s policy toward Taiwan. Taipei is relying on intelligence, surveillance, and international cooperation to evaluate any possible impacts.
The developments come amid ongoing tensions across the Taiwan Strait. PLA air and naval activity near Taiwan continues at elevated levels, highlighting the need for Taiwan to remain vigilant, Koo said. He also stressed that Taiwan’s future decisions are determined solely by its people, and that authorities will continue to monitor both military and political signals from Beijing.
Analysts say that targeting such a senior military figure is rare in China and could reflect internal political maneuvers within the Chinese Communist Party as President Xi Jinping consolidates control over the military. For Taiwan, the situation underscores the importance of real-time monitoring of Beijing’s military leadership and intentions.
